Animal Quick Find

Although averaging 1.5 metres in length, the Lace Monitor has been known to grow to 2 metres. Its colouring is typically dark blue with many scattered cream, yellow or white scales. Larger spots or blotches may also be formed by groups of scales. There is also the “Bells” form which is found along the Australia’s east coast and central regions, and its colour difference is marked with broad yellow and black cross-bands. All Lace Monitors have toes equipped with long, strong claws, which are used for climbing and digging. Their tails are extremely long and are usually almost twice the length of the monitor’s head and body.

Habitat

The Lace Monitor is found along the East Coast of Australia inhabiting forests and coastal tablelands. The Lace Monitor is arboreal and will often seek shelter from the heat and cold in tree hollows or hollow logs.

Diet

The Lace Monitor feeds upon birds, insects, reptiles, small mammals and carrion. It also actively forages for nesting birds’ eggs.

Breeding

The Lace Monitor is usually a solitary species but will come together in spring and early summer during the breeding season. Most females breed every year and 4-6 weeks after mating will lay 6-12 eggs. The female will dig a hole in the side of a termite mound to lay her eggs. The termites then close up the hole, keeping the eggs safe and at a constant incubation temperature of 30 degrees Celsius. After 8-9 months the young will hatch and the female will actually return to dig them out.

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Threat Level

Least Concern

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